§ 15. Mr. Hammersleyasked the Secretary of State for War whether British Valentine tanks have been used by the 1787 Russians in action with their armoured divisions; and whether he has received any reports on the rôle in which these tanks have been engaged in Russia.
§ Sir J. GriggYes, Sir. British Valentine tanks have been used with Russian armoured formations in action against the enemy. Our reports indicate that they have been employed in normal tank roles, and have given satisfaction.
§ 16. Mr. Hammersleyasked the Secretary of State for War why the Centaur tank has been removed from the secret list; why it has been exhibited in "Salute the Soldier" demonstrations; and why has the sergeant in charge been allowed to give a description of the tank for publication in the Press.
§ Sir J. GriggThe Centaur, mounting a 6-pounder gun, has been removed from the secret list because it is now being used for training. Photographs of it may be published in the Press, but no description of it may be given beyond the fact that it is a cruiser tank, mounting a 6-pounder gun. I understand that the sergeant referred to in the Question went no further than to give an estimate of its weight.
§ Mr. HammersleyDoes that mean that the Centaur tank is not being used as a fighting tank?
§ Sir J. GriggThe hon. Member had better put that down.